Classroom fad or fix? Are attendance prizes a bad bet?

What is it? 

What do supporters say? 

That students will be better motivated to make sure they attend school every day if they have the possibility of a reward at the end of the year. Schools that use this system have claimed that prizes are "more effective than punishment in motivating pupils" and have highlighted the positive impact they have on attendance. Research has found that, perhaps predictably, students are in favour of this type of scheme, with a 2006 study finding that 'gifts' were the most popular reward system among young people.

It's an idea that's been backed by Ofsted too. A 2008 report from the inspectorate on the best way to engage disaffected young people in secondary school found that: "Rewards, such as opportunities to go on trips or to gain awards, were a powerful incentive for students who struggled with school", helping them to behaviour, attainment and attendance.

What do critics say?

​That such systems are unfairly rewarding children who are lucky enough to not get ill, and could actually be damaging the intrinsic motivation that students should develop towards learning.

Psychologist Sandi Mann is running a school attendance scheme at the University of Central Lancashire entitled Your Future Your Life, and explains that she and her colleagues opted not to use rewards because they "want [students] to want to attend school because of the perceived benefits of what happens there, not in order to get a certificate, badge or pizza".

She also cites the long-held belief – as explored by researcher Edward Deci – that extrinsic reward systems only tend to work while they are in place, with the previous behaviour patterns often returning when such schemes are removed. Following this argument, schools may be able to boost their attendance with prizes, but could be neglecting the development of habits that will take students successfully through their education.

What now?

When Rachel Wright posted her blog this month, many commenters came out in defence of her position, accusing schools of being 'ableist' against young people whose conditions mean they have no choice but to miss school. Others, meanwhile, responded that there are no negative repercussions for those who don't receive the awards, and that the achievement is deserving of praise. But with attendance such a critical issue in schools, it seems that this debate won't be going anywhere soon.

Inspired by evidence-based practice? Visit EdResearch, our searchable library of education research (EdCentral members). If you're a teaching professional or SLT and not already an EdCentral member, you can join for free. Take a look at this page for more info. For all our latest updates follow @EdCentral on Twitter and on Facebook.